It’s no coincidence that our ancestors
flooded their darkest winter days with lots of light. Christmas is celebrated
around a brightly decorated tree, with twinkling lights, glowing candles,
and, for those lucky few, a roaring fireplace. Chanukah, or “The
Festival of Lights,” lasts eight days and nights and centers around
a menorah, which holds eight candles. On December 13th, the Swedes celebrate
St. Lucia Day, which is their longest night of the year. Each reveler
wears a wreath that holds a single candle in honor of St. Lucia (whose
name, by the way, means “light”). The burden falls on this
tireless gal to slowly return light to the people.

But let’s face it: There’s never enough light. Despite the
trees and the candles and, yes, even Lucia herself, it’s not an
easy task to brighten up winter’s darkest days. So instead of focusing
on the gloom, turn your attention to something you can control—your
gear!